Stihl 390 saw

Arborist Forum

Help Support Arborist Forum:

This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate links, including eBay, Amazon, and others.

Lester Gillett

ArboristSite Member
Joined
Mar 21, 2015
Messages
96
Reaction score
29
Location
Independence
I am looking at a stihl 390 power head only. Owner said it needs a new frame and he doesn't want to spend the
money for one. He wants $150, is this about right and what would a frame cost ? Could use a used frame in
stead of new. Also would this saw handle a 32 or 36" bar?

Lester
 
Not sure what "frame" means. If it is the engine housing, then $150 is way too much. The engine housings can be found but will require a major project to switch over. About $50 is what a saw with a broken engine housing is worth.
That saw can do a 24/25" bar but nothing longer is practical. I've used a 30" for a few cuts but it's just not a powerful enough saw. They're happy with a 20".
 
Just to add, you can use an engine housing off the 029, 029 super, 039, MS290, MS310, MS390. Of course if you use the MS series you'll wind up with flippy caps.
 
OEM lower frame for MS390 on fleaBay now for about $80 w/o shipping.
There's bound to be other stuff that needs to be replaced along the way.
The figures are already at around $250 and you may not have the full scoop on total damage/repairs.
I like my 039 plenty fine but this "saw in a box" may get expensive quick and without a better price margin I wouldn't bite.
If he doesn't want to put that much money into it maybe you should rethink it as well? at least at that price.
Can you get some pics?? may help give a better opinion. also, what broke the frame?? there may be more hidden damage.
 
I'd suggest you walk away, I had one, liked it well enough but always kicked myself for not dropping the extra $100 on the 360. It will pull a 25" fine in hardwood, but I wouldn't go any bigger.
It's an "OK" saw and I won't badmouth it, but with what you are talking about I think you're money will be better spent on a better saw. It's easy to get a bunch of money in a basket case and they aren't the friendliest to work on!
 
Thanks guys, I am going to pass as we need a saw that will pull a 32 or 36 bar. We have some 32" with oaks to split so will keep
looking for a bigger saw.
Lester
 
Thanks guys, I am going to pass as we need a saw that will pull a 32 or 36 bar. We have some 32" with oaks to split so will keep
looking for a bigger saw.
Lester

With The size bar and the wood being oak, a MS660, 288,390xp would be where I would look.

Save up and buy a used one off here.


If this is BA again,
You Win.
 
Back
Top